This is a video recipe for royal icing. To keep your gingerbread house from collapsing, plain old icing won't do – you need royal icing! It's also great for decorating cakes and cookies. Learn how to make royal icing with this guide from Howcast.

Step 1: Mix it upUsing an electric mixer, beat the confectioners' sugar and meringue powder until they're combined. Add half a teaspoon of almond or vanilla extract if you like. *Tip: If your grocery store doesn't stock meringue powder, look for it in craft and party stores.

Step 2: Add waterAdd six tablespoons of warm water and beat on high until stiff peaks form, about six minutes. *Tip: Stir in a few drops of food coloring, if desired.

Step 3: Keep it from stiffeningRoyal icing hardens quickly. To prevent this from happening as you decorate, keep a damp cloth over the icing bowl while you work.

Step 4: Store itStore extra icing in an airtight container in the fridge; it will keep for several days. When you're ready to use it, re-beat it to soften it. Add a tiny bit of water if necessary.

FactRoyal icing got its name from being used on fruitcake, which was the traditional wedding cake for English royalty.